Contrámalini Amarone Della Valpolicella Classico Veneto, Italy 2010

PRODUCT OVERVIEW: Contrámalini is a small winery in the heart of Valpolicella owned by third generation winemaker Fabio Tezza. With only 3 hectares under vine (with half of that rented out to another winemaker), Tezza has the time to lavish plenty of attention on his grapes as well as every aspect of the winemaking process. His wines reflect his passion and dedication. Today's majestic Amarone beautifully straddles the line between opulence and elegance. A blend of Corvina, Corvinone, Molinara, Molinara, and Croatina, it is aged for 48 months in a combination of Slovenian and French oak. The time spent in oak and in the bottle has served it very well; medium-to-full-bodied, it is a seamless blend of black cherry, plum, and blackcurrant laced with hints of vanilla, cocoa, and sweet baking spices.